Sarah is part of Novum’s editorial team: ‘You’re free to write what you like’
Sarah Hadouchi is a member on the editorial team of Novum, Leiden Law School’s legal magazine. She writes about a wide range of topics. ‘I love the creative freedom and being able to decide what you want to write about.’
Can you explain what Novum is exactly?
‘Novum is the law faculty’s magazine. Though we write about legal topics, it’s above all a platform for student voices. It doesn’t matter what your views are, your political preferences, or your background: you’re free to write what you like and how you write it. You can also put your own stamp on your work, for example using illustrations or by creating your own regular column.’
How did you get involved with Novum?
‘I saw a poster at the faculty and thought to myself “why not.” Writing is a very useful skill which helps with personal development. And publishing articles looks good on your CV. I had an interview with the team to see if I’d fit in and to explain what I’d like to write about. Novum aims to bring together a diverse group of contributors whose perspectives and writing styles complement one another. They’re looking for a healthy mix of styles and viewpoints, not just essays and opinion pieces.’
What are your tasks as an editor?
‘You write your own articles and have to plan your schedule and deadlines, so everything doesn’t end up being done at the last minute. Adding illustrations isn’t compulsory, but you do have that freedom. I like to create my own illustrations to accompany my articles. If you’d rather not do that yourself, the editor-in-chief can arrange that for you.’
How is an issue prepared?
‘Once a deadline has been set, you are free to come up with your own ideas for the issue. You discuss it with the editor-in-chief, who keeps an eye on the overall theme running through the articles. She also provides feedback on your first draft. Once all comments have been addressed, the article’s ready for publication.’
What do you enjoy most about the work?
‘I love the creative freedom and being able to decide what you want to write about. You can focus entirely on topics that genuinely interest you, which makes the writing process all the more engaging and enjoyable.’
How much time is involved?
‘I don’t find the workload too heavy, but it’s different each time. An essay that requires research and includes sources takes more time than an opinion piece. It usually takes me a maximum of four or five hours for each article, but that’s really the maximum. I try to make sure that my articles are easy to understand and follow. It also helps that the magazine is only published quarterly.’
Who could work for Novum as an editor?
‘Students who are socially engaged, have strong personal views, and want to develop their writing skills. It’s also great for anyone who enjoys being creative. Studying Law or Criminology can sometimes be quite demanding, with few opportunities for creativity. If that appeals to you, Novum is a great way to express your creative side.’
Any advice for those who have doubts about applying?
If you’re worried that it would be too much work, I’d say that’s not how I find it. I can easily combine the work with my studies and working from home. You just need your laptop. It’s something that really helps with developing useful writing skills. So, my advice would be – go for it!
Are you a law student with a curious mind and a flair for writing?
Join the editorial team at Novum – the law faculty magazine – and make your voice heard! We’re looking for new contributors who are keen to sharpen their legal views and aren’t afraid to put pen to paper.
Interested? Send an email to novum@law.leidenuniv.nl or DM via our LinkedIn page!